And Breathe Normally

About And Breathe Normally

Explore

- About - Making / Production - Actors - Trivia / Interesting Facts - Awards - Quotes - Music - Soundtrack

About

And Breathe Normally is a 2018 Icelandic-Swedish drama film directed by Isold Uggadottir. The film tells the story of two women from very different backgrounds whose lives become intertwined in unexpected ways. Set in Iceland, the film follows Lara, an Icelandic mother struggling to make ends meet, and Adja, a refugee seeking asylum from Guinea-Bissau. Their chance encounter leads to a deep connection as they both navigate through their own personal challenges and hardships. As Lara struggles with her precarious financial situation and trying to provide for her son, and Adja battles the harsh bureaucracy of the immigration system, their unlikely friendship becomes a lifeline for each other, offering support and understanding in the face of adversity. With nuanced performances and a poignant exploration of the complexities of human connection and empathy, And Breathe Normally is a powerful and moving portrayal of resilience and compassion in the face of adversity.

Making / Production

The film was written and directed by Isold Uggadottir, marking her feature directorial debut. The story was inspired by real-life experiences and explores themes of immigration, motherhood, and friendship. Filmed on location in Iceland, the stark and beautiful landscapes of the country serve as a backdrop to the characters' emotional journeys.

Actors

- Kristin Thora Haraldsdottir as Lara, an Icelandic mother struggling to make ends meet - Babetida Sadjo as Adja, a refugee seeking asylum from Guinea-Bissau Kristin Thora Haraldsdottir delivers a compelling performance as Lara, portraying the character's inner strength and vulnerabilities with authenticity. Babetida Sadjo brings a poignant and moving portrayal of Adja, capturing the resilience and determination of her character.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

- The film premiered at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival and received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and performances. - Director Isold Uggadottir drew from her own experiences working with refugees to inform the story and characters in the film. - And Breathe Normally was Iceland's official submission for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 91st Academy Awards.

Awards

- The film received the Directing Award in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival.

Quotes

- "In the midst of struggle, true compassion emerges." - Lara - "Our stories may be different, but our humanity connects us all." - Adja

Music

The musical score for And Breathe Normally was composed by Atli Orvarsson, providing a haunting and emotive backdrop to the film's emotional narrative.

Soundtrack

- "Breathe" by Sigur Ros - "Icelandic Lullaby" by Hildur Gudnadottir - "Freedom" by Asgeir These songs are featured in key moments throughout the film, enhancing the atmosphere and emotional impact of the storytelling.